Telehealth Patient Guide: Conditions Doctors Can’t Treat Online

As telehealth is becoming more popular in Australia, you may be considering using a telehealth provider for the first time or wondering whether a virtual consult is appropriate for your health concerns. While there are many upsides to telehealth, such as accessibility and flexibility, it is important to understand its limitations. Let’s take a look at when telehealth is a good idea and when an in-person consult is required.

Telehealth gives patients access to consultations with healthcare professionals via phone or video. This set-up can cover sessions with psychotherapists, health management programs, for example, for weight loss, and doctor’s consults for referrals, certificates or simple scripts. Many telehealth providers offer comprehensive services and often also some Medicare rebates or access to care for patients living with financial hardship or homelessness.

Mostly, telehealth makes it faster and easier to book and attend online appointments, especially for patients living remotely or juggling busy schedules.

The virtual nature of telehealth consultations limits its use for some conditions, for example, when a doctor needs to conduct a physical examination or provide hands-on treatment to their patient [1]. There are some tools and options for enhancing the delivery of telehealth, for example, in aged care settings, where carers may be able to check blood pressure or provide help with other relevant physical assessments. Some patients living remotely and managing chronic conditions may also use their own monitoring devices to collect some of the necessary information for the treating doctor.

For certain health conditions that require urgent care or potential medical intervention, telehealth does not provide the right solution [2].

1. Physical Examination Required: As mentioned, if a physical examination is required, for example, to palpate the abdomen or limbs, or check ears, nose or throat, telehealth may not be a good option.
2. Physical Procedure Needed: When treatment needs to be administered by a nurse or doctor, such as an injection or wound dressing, telehealth is limited.
3. High-Risk Medications: Telehealth doctors are not allowed to prescribe medications with a high potential for misuse, abuse, or addiction. It is important that these types of medications are managed under close supervision of a GP.
4. Complex or Serious Symptoms: If you are experiencing severe or rapidly changing symptoms, you may have to head to your nearest urgent care clinic or A&E. This includes breathing difficulties and physical trauma. Telehealth is limited in managing emergencies. While you may be able to get initial advice on how to manage your condition, you should not rely on telehealth to manage emergencies.
5. Complex Mental Health Needs: If you are experiencing severe or prolonged mental health issues, you should see a doctor or specialist for an in-person assessment and treatment plan. Telehealth is not equipped to treat complex or severe mental health issues. If you are experiencing suicidal thoughts, please call Lifeline 24/7 on 131114 or 000.

If you’re unsure if your condition is suitable for telehealth or is included in the list above, please consider taking the following steps:

• Call Healthdirect on 1800 022 222: This 24/7 helpline provides advice on where to seek appropriate medical care.
• Contact Your Doctor: You can contact your GP to discuss whether your condition can be managed via telehealth or if an in-person appointment is necessary.
• Head to A&E: For urgent care needs, head to your nearest urgent care clinic or A&E.

For more information on differing telehealth providers, check out MediCompare’s in-depth provider reviews or comparisons.

This article is for informational purposes only and is no substitute for professional medical advice. Please choose your provider with care. Always consult your doctor or a qualified health professional regarding any health-related questions or concerns.

[1] https://www.ahpra.gov.au/Resources/Information-for-practitioners-who-provide-virtual-care.aspx#:~:text=Recognise%20that%20telehealth%20is%20not%20appropriate%20for,not%20be%20appropriate%20to%20deliver%20via%20telehealth.
[2] https://www.nib.com.au/the-checkup/everyday-health/everyday-health-services/what-can-you-use-telehealth-for